Who can provide written consent for the disclosure of education records?

The correct choice identifies that both the student and a parent or guardian (if the student is underage) can provide written consent for the disclosure of education records. Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), students have the right to access and control their education records, and they must provide written consent before these records can be disclosed to third parties, with certain exceptions.

Additionally, for students who are considered dependent on their parents or guardians, typically those under the age of 18, parents or guardians also have the authority to grant consent for the release of educational records. This dual ability to provide consent ensures that both the autonomy of the student and the rights of the parents or guardians are considered within the framework of FERPA, particularly when it comes to underage students.

Understanding this aspect of FERPA demonstrates the law's intent to balance the privacy rights of students with the need for parents or guardians to be involved in the educational process, especially for minors.